The new media player is the second key feature of Windows Vista being made available to XP users ahead of the new operating system. Earlier this month, Microsoft released the final version of Internet Explorer 7 for Windows XP. The Vista versions of both titles will look somewhat different and have a few extra features as well. Microsoft is slated to wrap up development of Vista and start selling it to large businesses next month, with the operating system hitting store shelves in January.

The release of Urge and the new media software have been somewhat overshadowed, given that during the year since Microsoft announced its plans, it has decided to offer its own Zune player and companion subscription service. The $250 Zune is set to go on sale in mid-November.

In addition to Urge, the new media player features improved searching, a more visual interface and supports new formats for ripping and playing music, namely Windows Media Audio Professional and WAV Lossless.

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